Cincinnati's Ford, Gardner departing early for NFL draft
FILE - Cincinnati cornerback Ahmad Gardner (1) celebrates an interception of a Murray State pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game Sept. 11, 2021, in Cincinnati. Gardner, an Associated Press All-American who hasn't given up a touchdown in his college career, still has to declare for the draft. But he generally projects higher than any of his teammates, so that decision seems clear. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean, File)

FILE - Cincinnati cornerback Ahmad Gardner (1) celebrates an interception of a Murray State pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game Sept. 11, 2021, in Cincinnati. Gardner, an Associated Press All-American who hasn't given up a touchdown in his college career, still has to declare for the draft. But he generally projects higher than any of his teammates, so that decision seems clear. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean, File)

Dec. 30, 2021 12:39 AM EST
Cincinnati's Jerome Ford (24) talks with Devin Hightower during the second half the Cotton Bowl NCAA College Football Playoff semifinal game against Alabama, Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, in Arlington, Texas. Alabama won 27-6. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)

Cincinnati's Jerome Ford (24) talks with Devin Hightower during the second half the Cotton Bowl NCAA College Football Playoff semifinal game against Alabama, Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, in Arlington, Texas. Alabama won 27-6. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)

Dec. 31, 2021 07:41 PM EST